For 31 years, veteran Barry Medhurst has ensured Hull's military parades run smoothly, ensuring those who made the ultimate sacrifice are given fitting send-offs.

On Wednesday, the 75-year-old will lead his final parade in Hull - an annual service at the Ferensway war memorial to mark Anzac Day, which honours servicemen and women from Australia and New Zealand.

Mr Medhurst, who served with the Prince of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire - now part of the Yorkshire Regiment - from 1959 to 1970, says he is being forced to hang up his swagger stick due to his battle with dementia.

But the great grandfather-of-five, who lives with wife of 46 years, Beryl, on the North Hull Estate, says he cannot possibly bark his last command without a word of thanks to the "brilliant" people of Hull who make him proud.

FAMILIAR FACE: Barry has played a pivotal role in hundreds of parades over the years

He said: "I would like to thank the people of this city for the years of support they have given me and the veterans. Without them, the parades would be nothing."

On his kitchen table is a picture of him marching proudly in the city centre with his little grandson at his side. Fighting back tears, Mr Medhurst explained how much his role has meant to him.

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He has been a familiar face for many mourning the loss of servicemen killed in recent conflicts, leading the parades at the funerals of Private Johnathon Young, 18, from Orchard Park, in 2009 and Private Gregg Stone, 20, from Atwick near Hornsea, in 2012. Both young men were killed in Afghanistan while serving with infantry unit, 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment.

"Those two funerals really got to me," said Mr Medhurst, wiping away tears. "They were only young lads.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE: Barry Medhurst's swagger stick, beret and gloves

"It was right these lads, like all our lads who have served, are given a good send off, with the community paying its respects. These lads are heroes."

Mr Medhurst joined other veterans from Hull and the surrounding ceremonies in Wiltshire for the repatriations of both soldiers. Above all, he says he has always tried to ensure the deceased - soldiers killed in combat and veterans who have lived a long life - are afforded the dignity they deserve.

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"I have always had fantastic relationships with the city's undertakers and the crematorium staff," said Mr Medhurst. "The police have also been brilliant, ensuring roads have been closed off so people can gather to pay their respects."

Mr Medhurst will be seen from 10.30am on Wednesday, at the Ferensway war memorial, ahead of the 11am service. He will also be parading at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on Sunday.